Government cannot manage its finances without good measuring tools and personnel committed to long-term objectives, says President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere.
Speaking in Parliament during the opening of the 2023-2024 session, Ratu Wiliame said the re-establishment of the Ministry of Strategic Planning, National Development and Statistics would be given priority to ensure better co-ordination and formulation of a strategic and robust development agenda.
“Consultation and collaboration on socio-economic issues facing the nation is essential,” he said.
“Shortly, the Government will announce the appointment of a fiscal review committee. The committee will, as in the past, examine the overall setting of fiscal policy, revenue-raising and expenditures.
“The committee will identify strategies consistent with best practices to ensure Government’s fiscal sustainability.
“It will consult widely and is expected to report back in mid-May. Its members will also participate in the proposed National Economic Summit scheduled to take place towards the end of April.”
He said the summit was intended to be an inclusive one, bringing together a wide cross-section of the community and organisations to help shape the way forward for the country in the next four years.
According to Ratu Wiliame, this would also assist in the formulation of the national budget.
“It will also contribute to an economic policy framework to support sustainable growth in the short and medium-term.”
